While the Benteke saga has been developing in Birmingham, Paul Lambert and his Aston Villa team are away in Germany as they undergo a training camp and play three games against lower league opposition, SV Rodinghausen, SC Paderborn and VFL Bochum. Yesterday Aston Villa kicked off their pre-season friendlies against SV Rodinghausen. Here are the squads for both halves. All six signings made their debuts.

The final score line was 1-1 and it was Helenius who scored on his debut. Lowton provided a cross and Helenius headed in from close range. Siek scored a freekick to level the scoreline for SV Rodinghausen. Okore limped off after a back injury and he was replaced by Carruthers, the extent of the injury will be analysed at base.This game was more about fitness rather than the results, so I don’t expect Lambert to be too concerned right now.

A few players did stand out, Albrighton made his return from injury and played well. Was very much involved in the play and not only had a very good chance, but also created a good cross for Bacuna who headed wide. Helenius also impressed, not only did he score the goal he, Weimann and Agbonlahor were all attacking threats throughout the match.

Jesus TJ your starting early today, are sure a Villa fan mate? That vein of hate, contempt and loathing for the club seems to run pretty deep.
Ok we all have our whinges but If I felt the way you and Oohah seem too then I think I’d give it up and take up croquet,crown green bowling or tiddlywinks.

Part ex with Benteke? Oh no I forgot he don’t want to go there but he’ll anywhere else as long as its Tottenham.
28 probably at his peak but not a lot of resale value but a very good player none the less.

See Merson’s having a pop at us it the B’ham Mail, what it is with him and Savage they have the right arsehole with Villa, Savage yea I can understand he plied his very limited trade at the Sty but Merson donned the Claret And Blue so why always bad mouthing us?